Airborne trace elements (TEs) present in atmospheric fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exert notable threats to human health and ecosystems. To explore the impact of meteorological conditions on shaping the pollution characteristics of TEs and the associated health risks, we quantified the variations in pollution characteristics and health risks of TEs due to meteorological impacts using weather normalization and health risk assessment models, and analyzed the source-specific contributions and potential sources of primary TEs affecting health risks using source apportionment approaches at four sites in Shandong Province from September to December 2021. Our results indicated that TEs experience dual effects from meteorological conditions, with a tendency towards higher TE concentrations and related health risks during polluted period, while the opposite occurred during clean period. The total non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks of TEs during polluted period increased approximately by factors of 0.53–1.74 and 0.44–1.92, respectively. Selenium (Se), manganese (Mn), and lead (Pb) were found to be the most meteorologically influenced TEs, while chromium (Cr) and manganese (Mn) were identified as the dominant TEs posing health risks. Enhanced emissions of multiple sources for Cr and Mn were found during polluted period. Depending on specific wind speeds, industrialized and urbanized centers, as well as nearby road dusts, could be key sources for TEs. This study suggested that attentions should be paid to not only the TEs from primary emissions but also the meteorology impact on TEs especially during pollution episodes to reduce health risks in the future. Display omitted •Concentrations and health risks of TEs suffered dual effects of meteorological conditions.•Se, Mn, and Pb were influenced by meteorology dramatically.•Cr and Mn were dominant TEs affecting health risks.•HQ and CR of TEs increased by factors of 0.53–1.74 and 0.44–1.92, respectively, during polluted period.•Road dusts, industrialized and urbanized centers are pivotal sources for Cr and Mn.